CPU underperforming, Temps reading as extremely high when they aren't

[skater983]

Hi, I have a problem with my processor. I switched my mobo and cpu out recently for a z68 mobo and an i5 2500k. However, when i tried to play battlefield 3, the performance was horrible, significantly worse than on my old cpu. I figured out that my temps are apparently hovering between 75c and 85c while idling. I know that it isn't that hot because the heat sink is literally almost cool to the touch. I think that it's misreading my temps and underclocking the processor to prevent it from overheating or something. I don't even really know if it does that it's just my theory because I know that the temperature isn't that high. Any ideas out there?

If anyone needs more info just let me know.

 

[rolli59]

If it is reading that high it should be under clocking! RMA motherboard.

 

[skater983]

I RMA'd it the first time because they sent me one with a broken PCI slot. Can you RMA twice?

 

[rolli59]

You can RMA multiple times until you get an acceptable product!

 

[rolli59]

On second thought If your cooler is not attached properly then it will not get hot but the CPU will!

 

[skater983]

Ok I just pressed down on the cooler and heard it click into place further now my temps are around 50-60. That still seems too high.

 

[skater983]

What would a normal idling temperture be?

 

[rolli59]

About 10-15°C over ambient, you might want to disassemble and reapply paste since it might have dried out.

 

[skater983]

The paste is likely a problem but would it really affect it that drastically? I mean 20c to 60c seems like a large jump over some dry paste.

 

[rolli59]

Temps might drop after a few cycles but 60 is high and yes the paste is an essential part of the thermal cycle!

 

[inanition02]

Also - what is the ambient temp in the room? And what cooler/paste?

 

[skater983]

I about 70 F in the room and the cooler and paste are stock. The paste is dried though so that is part of the problem I just feel like only that can make the temps soar so much.

 

[inanition02]

Try new paste and re-seating the heatsink (make sure to clean the old paste off first!) - you should see 30-35C